Prevalence of asymptomatic carriage of plasmodium falciparum among blood donors at the Biyem-Assi District Hospital in Yaounde, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Malaria is transmitted by the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito, interhuman (transplacental), and by blood transfusion. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium parasitemia among blood donors at the Biyem-Assi district hospital in Yaoundé. Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical study conducted on 267 blood donors recruited at the blood bank of the Biyem-Assi District Hospital over 3 months, from February to May 2024. To obtain the free and informed consent of the volunteers, a questionnaire form was submitted to them. Socio-demographic data, knowledge, and practical attitudes towards malaria were collected. A blood sample was taken in an EDTA tube. The biological analysis of the blood was done through rapid diagnostic test examinations. The thick smear was done to calculate the plasmodial intensity, and the blood smear to identify the species. Complete blood count was performed to determine hematological parameters. SPSS software version 26.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: It emerged that the most represented age group was that of 29-54 years old. The male gender was more represented. The prevalence of Plasmodium infection was 15.0% with a plasmodial intensity between 75 and 500 parasites/µl of blood. The sole species involved was Plasmodium falciparum. Analysis of risk factors revealed that the type of housing and bedtime were significantly associated with malaria infection. Grass and stagnant water near the house were not significant risk factors for malaria infection. Conclusion: Ultimately, the plasmodial prevalence was 15.0% during the period of low transmission and in an endemic area. It would therefore be important to develop a safety strategy based on systematic screening measures for Plasmodium in blood donors.